Ecovillage Explorer Exchange

Discover how you can affordably tour ecovillages worldwide.

Ready to tour the world’s ecovillages but need help getting there?

We got you covered. Thanks to generous sponsors, we’re giving away thousands so you can have a transformative experience on a tour of intentional communities.

We’re looking for proactive people, who want to utilize a tour to propel their community journey forward, including:

  • Intentional community builders

  • Potential future community residents

  • Researchers, leaders, and promoters of communities

As an Explorer Exchange recipient, you’ll get a reduced price tour and meaningful work-trade opportunities. Learn more in our Program Guidelines below.

Our Sponsors

To all the people and organizations that make this program possible, we are grateful. Make a donation of $10, $25, or $100 today.

MAKE A DONATION

Program Guidelines

  • Our team independently reviews each application and discerns award eligibility based on a variety of factors, including:

    • Motivations for Participating: We assess the applicant’s reasons for wanting to join the tour and how they intend to utilize the experience to benefit the wider movement of intentional communities.

    • Financial Need and Funding Availability: We consider each applicant's financial situation to determine the necessity of the award and ensure that those who need financial support the most are prioritized.

    • Work-Trade Skills: Applicants are evaluated on their relevant skills that could contribute to the tour. This includes any technical abilities or experience that can be exchanged for a reduction in participation costs.

  • Click the “apply now” button above and complete the application. A member of our team will contact you if you are eligible for an award. We may request an interview or additional references.

    First come, first serve. Apply early to be considered.

  • Once we offer you an award, you have three days to accept or forfeit your award. If you accept, you’ll have 7 days to place your deposit and agree to the terms of the award agreement, including any volunteer work-exchange requirements. Then you just need to worry about packing your bags and getting yourself to the start of the tour!

  • At this time, we do not offer any free tours. Recipients can expect to pay between $200 - 250 per day for all meals, lodging, and transport during a tour. For comparison, the full price for our tours is usually $300 - 400 per day.

    Due to the limited availability of funds, we can only support a small number of people with large scholarships. The more you can pay out-of-pocket means the more likely it is you’ll receive funding and the more funding will be available for more people.

  • At this time, we cannot offer compensation for flights or any other transportation before/after the tour. Transport during the tour is covered.

  • Yes, we have payment plan options for all of our discounted and full price tours. A $500 deposit is all that’s required to reserve your place on a tour. Custom payment plan options in monthly installments are available.

One of the greatest experiences I have ever had. A completely unique journey to some wondrous ecovillage projects, full of inspirational humans. To share the tours with others with similar visions was enriching and a real privilage. I left feeling fulfilled and educated.

— Adam Bates

Questions?

We’re happy to help! Just be in touch.

Contact Us